开云体育

ctrl + shift + ? for shortcuts
© 2025 Groups.io

Re: PC/Computer Control and Memory Programming for the X5105

 

On Wed, Jan 6, 2021 at 07:58 AM, DougVL wrote:
CHIRP works with IC-7000
But - NOT with the X5105 (when I select either Icom IC-7000 or IC-7100).
I have data stored in Memory Channels 1 and 2, but CHIRP just shows "error" when trying to read the memory contents.
I did not try writing to a memory - if it can't read one, it might 'foul up' one by trying to write to it.
? Rather disappointing!? I had high hopes.
--
Doug, K8RFT


Re: intermittent power output

 

开云体育

Thanks. Not ready to do anything just yet but Its’ only a matter of time.

Mike K7ITL


On Jan 6, 2021, at 8:32 AM, Rock Dubois <rockdubois1945@...> wrote:

Mike,

the only point to pay attention to is the connection between the battery and the PCB. Keep everything on you desk, bench or table so that you don't drop the back panel with the battery.
The battery is heavy and could rip off the cable. Don't drop and loose the screws, they are really small.

73, Y. Rock AE7YD


Re: PC/Computer Control and Memory Programming for the X5105

 

Initial test of computer digital control of the X5105 -

I connected my Xiegu USB CAT cable from Win7 laptop to X5105.
Then started WSJT-X.? With the software set to the right COM port, and radio selected as Icom ic-7000, the PC will connect to the radio and control its frequency and switch to Transmit.? This WIn7 laptop is a bit underpowered, though, and it took about 1/2 second after button push (TUNE) to switch the radio into TX mode.? That could be a problem with FT8 cycle sync.? With this PC, that is.
But the good news is that the PC - and WSJT-X - can control the X5105.
The audio interface to the X5105 is still only in my imagination.? So, no FT8 qso's yet.? (A.F. Connector parts should arrive here today or tomorrow.)
--
Doug, K8RFT


Re: intermittent power output

Rock Dubois
 

Mike,

the only point to pay attention to is the connection between the battery and the PCB. Keep everything on you desk, bench or table so that you don't drop the back panel with the battery.
The battery is heavy and could rip off the cable. Don't drop and loose the screws, they are really small.

73, Y. Rock AE7YD


Re: PC/Computer Control and Memory Programming for the X5105

 

开云体育

I’ve looked into FT-8 and a few other weak signal modes and they just don’t appeal to me. I want to talk to a human being not just add up more contacts or counties or countries or whatever.

The only attraction for me of PSK over CW is that I can get through with less power consumption and general strain.

Of course I’m completely out of sympathy with most of the hams around me. Why should I fool around with VHF now that I have a cell phone? As far as emergency operation, as soon as the cell towers go off of the air, the ham repeaters go down as well. I’ve tried to get the RACES/ARES group to at least sort out any problems with operating simplex but to no avail. They just drag their sorry old carcasses to the VHF rig once a week to let the rest of the group know that they are still alive. We have one NCS who regularly forgets to release his PTT between each roll call.

Some year ago I tried to set up a Field Day operation where they had to actually get out of their trucks and walk 200 yards. The reaction? “How to we get the picnic tables and barbecue there?” Sad.

Sorry. Off topic. I’ll go quietly.

Mike K7ITL




On Jan 6, 2021, at 4:58 AM, DougVL <K8RFTradio@...> wrote:

I've been wanting to try the X5105 for FT8.
And I would like a way to set up the X5105's frequency channel memories using a PC instead of using the rotary dial to slowly select each detail.
Since Xiegu says its communication uses the Icom CAT CI-V protocol, I tried some of the software available.? But I just started and don't have many details yet - I'm posting this now in hopes of other users also trying out programs and posting results.
I'm using the CAT USB cable that came with the CE-19 adapter.? And that was included with my "Outdoor Version" of the X5105, from Radioddity.? (The 'outdoor' version is identified by the clear cover shield over the LCD screen.? And I've read something that implied that the screen is one made for good visibility outdoors, in sunlight.)
***

The program "Icom Explorer" works with the X5105.
It's not quite 'simple' to use, though.

"Icom Memories Manager - v.1.-.14 (VK4ADC) [Mems.exe] also seems to work.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
This might work - needs testing.

https://arachnoid.com/IcomProgrammer/index.html
and they have JRX: Virtual Ham Radio, which looks promising

CHIRP works with IC-7000
***

PLEASE - Feel free to try any or all, and find more!? Report your results and opinions here, in detail

I know that PC control of a 'handheld portable' radio is sort of a contradiction, but what I'm more interested in is the memory programming.
I do also think it would be fun to use the radio for portable FT8, but with Android rather than Windows.? A whole different issue!

--
Doug, K8RFT


Re: Memory battery???

 

开云体育

Ah. I get it. Well, my hopefully more compatible USB adapter will be here in a few days and I can get one obstacle out of the way.

Mike K7ITL

On Jan 6, 2021, at 4:17 AM, DougVL <K8RFTradio@...> wrote:

On Tue, Jan 5, 2021 at 09:46 PM, DougVL wrote:
MacIcom
OOps, I meant to mention that the Mac program would be a way to test your cable and connection - without changing your firmware.? You would know if the Mac could successfully communicate with the X5105, 'before' any firmware erasure.? And it "might" be able to do the file transfer too, and avoid needing windows.? But the 'mini' description of MacIcomControl didn't say if it could transfer files, like some terminal programs can.
?
--
Doug, K8RFT


Re: External amp keying

 

I can confirm VOX will work for FT8. I have used the 5105 on FT8 and a windows 10 machine a couple of times and made contacts each time. I did not have CAT control and used VOX to trigger the rig for FT8.?

you will have to go into the Line in/out menu setting and adjust the line in & out gain to get the best levels for RX & TX. Also your VOX gain will need to be adjust for maximum power TX.?
--
Brian
K0FBS


PC/Computer Control and Memory Programming for the X5105

 

I've been wanting to try the X5105 for FT8.
And I would like a way to set up the X5105's frequency channel memories using a PC instead of using the rotary dial to slowly select each detail.
Since Xiegu says its communication uses the Icom CAT CI-V protocol, I tried some of the software available.? But I just started and don't have many details yet - I'm posting this now in hopes of other users also trying out programs and posting results.
I'm using the CAT USB cable that came with the CE-19 adapter.? And that was included with my "Outdoor Version" of the X5105, from Radioddity.? (The 'outdoor' version is identified by the clear cover shield over the LCD screen.? And I've read something that implied that the screen is one made for good visibility outdoors, in sunlight.)
***
https://www.vk4adc.com/web/index.php/software-projects/55-vk4adc-utils/49-icommems
The program "Icom Explorer" works with the X5105.
It's not quite 'simple' to use, though.

"Icom Memories Manager - v.1.-.14 (VK4ADC) [Mems.exe] also seems to work.
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
This might work - needs testing.

https://arachnoid.com/IcomProgrammer/index.html
and they have JRX: Virtual Ham Radio, which looks promising

CHIRP works with IC-7000
***

PLEASE - Feel free to try any or all, and find more!? Report your results and opinions here, in detail

I know that PC control of a 'handheld portable' radio is sort of a contradiction, but what I'm more interested in is the memory programming.
I do also think it would be fun to use the radio for portable FT8, but with Android rather than Windows.? A whole different issue!

--
Doug, K8RFT


Re: External amp keying

 

On Tue, Jan 5, 2021 at 07:47 PM, Brian wrote:
What about Chirp Doug?
Chirp's web site says it works with Icom models including the IC-7000.? And, as I recall, Xiegu says to use settings (protocol) for the '7000.
I've used Chirp a number of times for my UV-5R and it works well.? Although it's not especially user friendly or convenient.? It works well enough and it's free - the 'qualities' I need in these penny-pinching retirement days
?
Give it a try and tell us about the experience!

What I (and we?) don't know yet is if the X5105 memory channels are 'writable' by PC.? Or, for that matter, whether CAT control can switch to TX mode - I've? been wondering about using the X5105 for FT8 qso's.? I have parts on the way for attempting to make PC connections to the X5105 for use with WSJT-X FT8.? The 'sticking point' is/will be PTT.? But maybe VOX will work.
--
Doug, K8RFT


Re: Memory battery???

 

On Tue, Jan 5, 2021 at 09:46 PM, DougVL wrote:
MacIcom
OOps, I meant to mention that the Mac program would be a way to test your cable and connection - without changing your firmware.? You would know if the Mac could successfully communicate with the X5105, 'before' any firmware erasure.? And it "might" be able to do the file transfer too, and avoid needing windows.? But the 'mini' description of MacIcomControl didn't say if it could transfer files, like some terminal programs can.
?
--
Doug, K8RFT


Re: Memory battery???

 

开云体育

Those are cool and interesting programs. If I get it, they are to control the rig like setting the frequency and such. Personally I don’t have much of a need for that. I’m operating portable and sniffing about for a station to talk to. The front panel controls are probably enough for me.

My FDTI based USB interface should be here in a day or so and if my borrowed Windows 10 machine allows me to program my telescope hardware, I’ll feel confident enough to try burning new firmware into my 5105. As I said, I’m paranoid about erasing my existing firmware and finding that I can’t burn anything. Yeow!

Mike


On Jan 5, 2021, at 6:46 PM, DougVL <K8RFTradio@...> wrote:

I was 'finding' software to try out with the X5105, since Xiegu says its CAT works like an Icom IC-7000.
One thing I ran across might be helpful for you - -
??? on

?
MacIcomControl BlackCatSystems
Shareware MacIcomControl allows your Mac to communicate with and control an Icom radio. You need a radio with a CI-V interface port. You can set the frequency and mode, and store memories. In addition, MacIcomControl is a RigTalk handler application, which means other applications (such as logging programs) can use MacIcomControl to talk to your radio(s).
?For us Windows users, there is

The program "Icom Explorer" works with the X5105.
It's not quite 'simple' to use, though.

"Icom Memories Manager - v.1.-.14 (VK4ADC) [Mems.exe] also seems to work.

I'm still working on trying those, and looking for others.? More to come -? -? probably!
Doug, K8RFT


Re: Memory battery???

 

I was 'finding' software to try out with the X5105, since Xiegu says its CAT works like an Icom IC-7000.
One thing I ran across might be helpful for you - -
??? on

?
MacIcomControl BlackCatSystems
Shareware MacIcomControl allows your Mac to communicate with and control an Icom radio. You need a radio with a CI-V interface port. You can set the frequency and mode, and store memories. In addition, MacIcomControl is a RigTalk handler application, which means other applications (such as logging programs) can use MacIcomControl to talk to your radio(s).
?For us Windows users, there is
https://www.vk4adc.com/web/index.php/software-projects/55-vk4adc-utils/49-icommems
The program "Icom Explorer" works with the X5105.
It's not quite 'simple' to use, though.

"Icom Memories Manager - v.1.-.14 (VK4ADC) [Mems.exe] also seems to work.

I'm still working on trying those, and looking for others.? More to come -? -? probably!
Doug, K8RFT


Re: External amp keying

 

On Tue, Jan 5, 2021 at 07:19 PM, DougVL wrote:
using a computer to add memory frequencies to the X5105.
UPDATE:
***
https://www.vk4adc.com/web/index.php/software-projects/55-vk4adc-utils/49-icommems
The program "Icom Explorer" works with the X5105.
It's not quite 'simple' to use, though.

"Icom Memories Manager - v.1.-.14 (VK4ADC) [Mems.exe] also seems to work.

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
?
--
Doug, K8RFT


Re: External amp keying

 

What about Chirp Doug?

Brian
K0FBS



--
Brian
K0FBS


Re: External amp keying

 

On Wed, Dec 23, 2020 at 05:13 AM, Dick de V wrote:
I also want to use my headset microphone.
I had assumed that I would have to use VOX.
I HAVE been looking into PTT control for use with a bluetooth headset/mic with a PTT switch module.? For that, I thought I would be required to use the PTT line from the MIC connector.? But now it sounds like that will not work!

Slightly related, I have been wondering about using a computer to add memory frequencies to the X5105.? I had found a free program for that which works with my IC-706MkII, and Xiegu (I think) said that their CI-V (CAT) is compatible with Icom's.
Just a few minutes ago, I installed DXLabs "Commander" and configured it for the serial port that the Xiegu CAT cable created.
It works!? Well, so far, I can control the radio's frequency from the keyboard.? Apparently I need another program "module" for memory management.
?
--
Doug, K8RFT


Re: intermittent power output

 

Rock-
I thank you also!? It's a very interesting condition - and observation.? Great job!
And I copied your post into the group's "Files" section.? That should make it easier to find later on.
--
Doug, K8RFT


Re: new X5105 user manual

 

On Mon, Dec 28, 2020 at 12:05 AM, Ken Talbott wrote:
At the risk of spamming this group, here is an updated version of the X5105 Manual. Early feedback identified omissions and formatting errors. Enjoy!
Rev 2, page 8 says
"28 EXT DC
This 5.5mm X 2.1mm coaxial power jack, (+) center, is used to
connect external DC power. "

However, I found that my X5105, received in June, 2020 from a 'new' batch just received by Radioddity, that my unit's power connecdtor is 2.5 mm x 5.5 mm.? The Charger I bought (and described in a different thread) has multiple, interchangeable connector ends and the 2.1 mm connector did not fit, but the included 2.5 mm 'end' did fit - and works well.
I think Xiegu changed the connector size after starting production.
Two versions of the manual that I have on file,

V1.0.04-02?? and
V3.0 Preview Edition
do not mention the connector size.? (NOT very helpful!)

--
Doug, K8RFT


Re: intermittent power output

 

Noted and Thank you..

Dave KK7SS


Re: intermittent power output

 

开云体育

Thank you!!! Stuff like this makes the forum so worth while!!

Did you find that dissembling the beast was fraught with any hazards? Thing that I might break or misassemble?

Mike K7ITL


On Jan 4, 2021, at 8:07 PM, Rock Dubois <rockdubois1945@...> wrote:

My X5105 was working fine but suddenly started randomly dropping its power output to below one watt . Some time it would work
for over an hour with no problem sometime failed after a few minutes.Running the ATU would mostly make it fail or come back.
Being out of warranty I was out of luck. When I finally had some free time I decided to open the radio in search of a bad contact.
While unscrewing the back panel it felt weird on the screws. After removing the panel I found out that 2 of the 4 brass standoffs
were still on the back panel while the two others were on the PCB. All 4 were loose. I removed the two from the back panel and
secured them on the PCB and tied the two other ones. At this time I did power up the radio with the intend to search for a bad
contact but the radio was now working and running the ATU it continued to work.I did reinstall the panel and it has been working
since then, over a month now, and didn't fail a single time. Xiegu uses the brass standoffs for the ground return between the PCBs.
The standoffs being loose were making intermittent contacts.
I thought I share this for the benefit of others who might have a similar problem.


Re: intermittent power output

 

Thanks for that
Brian
K0FBS?


--
Brian
K0FBS